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Authorities search for rape suspect

Law enforcement officials are looking for information on a rape which occurred at approximately 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25, in Macon County within the Nantahala National Forest.

Authorities are seeking information in identifying a possible suspect, a white male, 6 feet tall, 200 pounds, between the ages of 30 and 40, with brown wavy short hair, no facial hair, green to blue eyes, a deep voice and a fair complexion.

The suspect was last seen wearing dark blue jeans and a medium blue shirt. The subject is armed and considered dangerous and may be carrying a backpack. No vehicle information is available at this time.

The incident occurred at the intersection of Forest Service Road 711 and the Wayah Road, FSR 1310. A woman driving through the area stopped to help a person lying beside the road she believed was incapacitated. A firearm was then used to subdue the victim and she was raped.

On the same day and approximate location, a motor grader was vandalized and diesel was stolen. Earlier in the day, three people were observed around the motor grader that may have information relevant to the case.

Anyone with information can call the U.S. Forest Service Special Agent at 828.231.0288, the Macon County Sheriff’s Office at 828.524.2811 or the SBI at 800.334.3000.

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